After a physical examination, blood work, and a weight-loss strategy were completed at the shelter, he was transferred to a foster home where he appeared to be active and happy. However, he began to develop respiratory issues.

“When we first heard Meow wheezing, we attributed it to possible allergies or the fact that he was moving around more in his foster home but treated it with further tests and medications,” said Jennifer Steketee, the shelter veterinarian who has been monitoring Meow’s health. “Many obese people and animals wheeze when they walk, but we didn’t want to assume anything.”

When the symptoms worsened toward the end of the week, he was brought in for further testing and taken to an emergency veterinary hospital for continued care. Several veterinary specialists were consulted in Meow’s care but treatment was unsuccessful.

“His extreme obesity may have set off a string of events that ultimately ended his life,” Steketee said.